Position control apparatus

ABSTRACT

Particular embodiments of the inventive technology may be described as a position control apparatus capable of moving at least one side guide component of an item conveyance system to any of a plurality of component positions, as desired, within a component position range. The apparatus may comprise a fluidic drive system configured to drive, with a single fluidic displacement, a plurality of positioners in a first relative direction; and a bias system that includes a plurality of biasers that bias the positioners in a direction that is opposite the first relative direction. The bias system may include at least one biaser for every positioner, and the apparatus may enable adjustment of the positioners to a plurality of positions within a positioner range. The positioners may effect positioning, as desired, of the at least one component to a desired component position within the component position range.

I. PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation-in-part of, and claims benefit of andpriority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/417,021, filed Mar. 9,2012, which itself is a continuation of, and claims benefit of andpriority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/124,033, filed May 20,2008 (published as publication number US 2009/0288725 A1 on Nov. 26,2009 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,132,665 on Mar. 13, 2012), saidapplications hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The need to accurately position—and reposition as a new application mayrequire—one or more items for proper operation of systems and apparatushas been known in several industries for years. Perhaps the most wellknown such position control apparatus is a side guide position controlapparatus, which find application in the bottling industry to maintainproper position of containers (bottles or cans, as but two examples) asthey travel along a conveyor during processing (filling, capping, etc.).A similar type of position control apparatus may operates as part of apalletizing system to maintain the proper position of pallets as theytravel along a conveyor, whether for pallet manufacture or palletloading. Position control apparatus may also find application as part ofa differential valve controller, an HVAC mixing control system (as asubstitute for expensive blowers) and a programmable vehicle suspensionsystem (where ground clearance is controlled), as but three of manyexamples. Indeed, the inventive position control apparatus disclosed andclaimed herein may be used to control the position of components of asystem, where such components may benefit from repeated monitoring andadjustment to assure proper positioning (e.g., during a single “run” ona single bottle size) and/or, particularly in systems that are usable toprocess differently sized items (e.g., bottles of different sizes),where components need to have their position adjusted before a specific“run” (e.g., on a different bottle size), depending on the size of anitem processed during that “run.”

There have been attempts in the past to provide position control systemsthat repeatedly monitor and accurately adjust component(s) to assureproper positioning and/or facilitate adjustments necessitated by thedifferent size of an item processed during a specific “run.” However,such systems appear prohibitively costly, unnecessarily complex, and/orsimply do not afford all the benefits afforded by the inventivetechnology.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Particular embodiments of the inventive technology may be described as aposition control apparatus that comprises a fluidic drive systemconfigured to drive, with a single fluidic displacement, each of aplurality of positioners in a first relative direction; and a biassystem that includes a plurality of biasers that bias the positioners ina direction that is opposite the first relative direction. Particularembodiments of the inventive position control apparatus technology maybe described as comprising a fluidic drive system that comprises a fluidcompressor and a plurality of positioner actuators fluidicly linked inparallel and with the fluid compressor; a piston in each of thepositioner actuators; and a plurality of positioners, each of which isresponsive to (e.g., moved by) at least one of the pistons, wherein thedrive system is configured to drive the piston in a first relativedirection, and wherein the apparatus further comprises a plurality ofbiasers, each of which is configured to bias at least one of thepositioners in a direction opposite the first relative direction.Particular embodiments may achieve high operational efficiency due to,e.g., spring placement relative to a piston containing space.

As mentioned, advantages of certain embodiments of the inventivetechnology relate to reduced cost and decreased complexity. Otherperhaps more specific advantages of particular embodiments of theinventive technology disclosed and claimed herein include, but are notnecessarily limited to: in certain embodiments, high operationalefficiency, stabilization, due to biasers, of torque from weight of siderails allowing for use of fewer actuators; in certain embodiments, biasforce helps overcome “breakaway” force of the cylinder seal; in certainembodiments, preclusion of need to manually adjust side guides whennecessary; in certain embodiments, length of air conveyor systemsrequires low cost per actuator; in certain embodiments, inaccessibilityof air conveyor systems may result in high reliability; in certainembodiments, comparatively few or no wires; in certain embodiments,comparatively few or no mechanical connections; in certain embodiments,one control point for numerous actuators; in certain embodiments,flexible tubing enhances simplicity of design and facilitates set-up;and, in certain embodiments, pneumatic back pressure results in smallforces as applied to side rails (and thus reduced tendency of flexureunder high forces). Of course, other advantages of the inventivetechnology may be disclosed in the remainder of the specification,including the claims.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus (biasers are external helical springs).

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus (biasers are internal helical springs), wherethe cylinders are transparent to show internal components.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus (with an elastic material serving asbiasers), where the cylinders are transparent to show internalcomponents.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus (with helical springs as biasers), withpistons shown in solid line for clarity (part of positioner withincylinder not shown).

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the inventive position control apparatus,with contained compressible fluid as biasers (pistons shown in dashedline; part of positioner within cylinder not shown).

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a weighted cam biaser embodiment ofthe inventive position control apparatus, with pistons shown in solidline for clarity (part of positioner within cylinder not shown).

FIG. 7A shows a top view of components of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus with electromagnetic biasers; FIG. 7B shows aperspective view of components of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus with electromagnetic biasers; FIG. 7C shows afront view of components of an embodiment of the inventive positioncontrol apparatus with electromagnetic biasers; and FIG. 7D shows a sideview of components of an embodiment of the inventive position controlapparatus with electromagnetic biasers (FIGS. 7A, B and D show atransparent cylinder).

FIG. 8A shows a front view of linkage components of an embodiment of theinventive position control apparatus; FIG. 8B shows a top view oflinkage components of an embodiment of the inventive position controlapparatus; FIG. 8C shows a perspective view of linkage components of anembodiment of the inventive position control apparatus; FIG. 8D shows aside view of linkage components of an embodiment of the inventiveposition control apparatus (cylinder shown as transparent in FIGS. 8A, Cand D).

FIG. 9A shows a front view of components of an embodiment of theinventive position control apparatus as applied as a differential valvecontroller; FIG. 9B shows a perspective view of components of anembodiment of the inventive position control apparatus as applied as adifferential valve controller; FIG. 9C shows a side view of componentsof an embodiment of the inventive position control apparatus as appliedas a differential valve controller; FIG. 9D shows a top view ofcomponents of an embodiment of the inventive position control apparatusas applied as a differential valve controller (cylinder shown astransparent in FIGS. 9A, B and D).

FIG. 10A shows a top view of components of an embodiment of theinventive position control apparatus applied as a vehicle suspensionsystem; FIG. 10B shows a perspective view of components of an embodimentof the inventive position control apparatus applied as a vehiclesuspension system; FIG. 10C shows a front view of components of anembodiment of the inventive position control apparatus applied as avehicle suspension system; and FIG. 10D shows a side view of componentsof an embodiment of the inventive position control apparatus applied asa vehicle suspension system.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the inventive technology where biasersare external of, and alongside, a cylinder that establishes a pistoncontaining space. It shows an example of a retrofit apparatus in which aconventional two position cylinder was fit into an armature, therebyproviding an infinitely adjustable positioner.

FIGS. 12A-C show and embodiment of the inventive technology where ablock (perhaps an extrusion) establishes three spaces—one for the pistonand two for two spring biasers. FIG. 12A shows a view of the blockitself from the top; FIG. 12B shows a view of the block from the side(note the second (movable) support at the top thereof), and FIG. 12Cshows a transparent view from the side (where the block itself, and thetube around the springs is transparent, revealing the otherwiseconcealed piston, positioner and springs). FIG. 12A shows a top view;FIG. 12B a side view; and FIG. 12C a side transparent view. It is ofnote that the block type embodiment may afford a positioner that is evenmore compact and efficient (and easier to mount) than the cylinder typeembodiment.

FIGS. 13A-13D shows block type embodiments attached side to side; FIG.13B shows an end to end arrangement. Such configurations may afford evengreater application and functionality, and increase positioningdistance, or stroke length, (e.g., double distance), and increaseoverall system efficiency relative to “single” apparatus configurations.

FIGS. 14A-F show embodiments of “spring external” (i.e., spring externalof the piston containing space) extrusion type apparatus and “springinternal” cylinder type apparatus as applied to a bottle conveyanceline, for comparison purposes. FIGS. 14A (full retraction) and 14B (fullextension) show a “spring internal” cylinder type apparatus, while FIGS.14C (full extension) and 14D (full retraction) show a “spring internal”(i.e., spring internal of the piston containing space) embodiment. FIGS.14E and 14F show a body (specifically, an extrusion) type embodiment (asopposed to a cylinder type embodiment), in fully extended and fullyretracted configuration, respectively. Of particular note is theincreased efficiency of the spring external type apparatus (FIGS. 14A,14B, 14E and 14F, and FIGS. 15B, 15C and 15D) as compared to the springinternal type apparatus (FIGS. 14C, 14D and 15A).

FIGS. 15 A-C show operational efficiencies of various inventiveapparatus. FIG. 15A (left side shows fully retracted configuration;right side shows fully extended configuration) shows a single stage,non-stacked, non-telescoping, infinite position, “spring internal”embodiment with an efficiency of 23%. FIG. 15B (left side shows fullyretracted configuration; right side shows fully extended configuration)shows a single stage, non-stacked, non-telescoping, infinite position,“spring external” embodiment with an efficiency of 67%. FIG. 15C shows atwo stage arrangement (left side shows fully retracted configuration;right side shows fully extended configuration) with an efficiency of133%. FIG. 15D shows a four stage arrangement with an efficiency of 267%(left side shows fully retracted configuration; right side shows fullyextended configuration). Note that in FIGS. 15A, 15B and 15C, movementof one positioner 9 of a first block effects movement of a block that isconnected therewith. Such side by side connection (of one block to themoving positioner of an adjacent block) can achieve tremendousefficiencies. When positioner control apparatus are connected side byside in such fashion instead of end to end, the inefficiency associatedwith the piston width is avoided.

FIGS. 16A-B show an embodiment of the spring length adjuster technologyas applied to an extrusion type apparatus. FIG. 16A shows the positioncontrol apparatus in full retraction mode while FIG. 16B shows theposition control apparatus in full extension mode.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As mentioned earlier, the present invention includes a variety ofaspects, which may be combined in different ways. The followingdescriptions are provided to list elements and describe some of theembodiments of the present invention. These elements are listed withinitial embodiments, however it should be understood that they may becombined in any manner and in any number to create additionalembodiments. The variously described examples and preferred embodimentsshould not be construed to limit the present invention to only theexplicitly described systems, techniques, and applications. Further,this description should be understood to support and encompassdescriptions and claims of all the various embodiments, systems,techniques, methods, devices, and applications with any number of thedisclosed elements, with each element alone, and also with any and allvarious permutations and combinations of all elements in this or anysubsequent application.

Particular embodiments of the inventive technology may be described as aposition control apparatus 6 that comprises a fluidic drive system 7(e.g., a system that uses pressurized fluid to drive one or more partsor items) configured (or set up) to drive, with a single fluidicdisplacement 8 (e.g., a slug of fluid released from a compressor uponeven slight depressurization thereof), each of a plurality ofpositioners 9 in a first relative direction 10; and a bias system thatincludes a plurality of biasers 11 that bias the positioners in adirection 12 that is opposite the first relative direction. It is ofnote that every time a pressure of a single compressor is increased,regardless of how slightly, a single fluidic displacement takes place; a“zone” may be defined as including those positioners that are driven bythe single fluidic displacement (e.g., from a single compressor). Alonga single item (such as bottle) conveying line (as but one example),there may, of course, be more than one zone.

It is of note that the term “relative direction” is used because (a)often the application requires control of, e.g., side guides 15 thatcontrol position of an item (e.g., a bottle being conveyed) by moving intowards it (or away from it) from opposite sides of the bottle (suchthat, strictly speaking, such control movements are in oppositedirections); and (b) particularly when the position control apparatus isa side guide control apparatus (e.g., to control the position of bottlesduring conveyance, as shown in FIG. 1), the conveyor might changedirection (i.e., at first it might head west, then turn right and headnorth). Relative direction is considered a more accurate term than theunqualified term “direction” because “relative direction” is relativeto, e.g., a component or item (e.g., a bottle) whose position is to becontrolled. As such, a first relative direction may be in towards abottle that is being conveyed (or, perhaps away from a bottle that isbeing conveyed); the opposite direction would be away from the bottle,and towards the bottle, respectively. Embodiments showing a firstrelative direction that is away from the bottle (i.e., the compressedair drives the positioners away from the bottle) include FIGS. 1 and 4;examples of embodiments showing a first relative direction that istowards the bottle (i.e., the compressed air drives the positionerstowards the bottle) include FIGS. 2, 3, 5 and 6. Looking at FIG. 2, forexample, as can be readily appreciated, when compressed air is releasedinto any of the three cylinders, it would drive the piston away from theend of the cylinder where the compressed air enters, against thecontrolling and stabilizing force of the compressed spring; when air isreleased from the cylinder, the spring would act to drive the pistontowards the end of the cylinder where the compressed air enters, againstthe controlling and stabilizing force of the air still contained in thecylinder.

It is of note that there are a variety of alternate configurations ofthe inventive technology. For example, a position control apparatuscould have a biaser established internally (e.g., FIG. 2) or externally(e.g., FIG. 1) of a cylinder; the compressed air could enter on thepositioner side of a piston (e.g., FIG. 1) or on the other side of apiston (e.g., FIG. 2); and the biaser could be established on thepositioner side of a piston (e.g., FIG. 3) or on the other side (whetherthat biaser be established externally or internally). These “options”amount to eight basic configurations for embodiments having pistons.FIG. 1 shows a configuration where external biasers are established onthe positioner side of a piston and compressed air enters on thepositioner side of the piston. Configuring biasers in each of theseconfigurations would be well known to anyone of ordinary skill in theart; in FIGS. 1-6, it may merely involve selecting and establishing aspring such that it will be compressed along all expected ranges ofmotion of the positioner. In other of the eight configurations, it mayinvolve selecting and establishing a spring such that it will bestretched along all expected ranges of motion of the positioner.Additionally, extreme positioner positions should not invoke either aunacceptably weak or unnecessarily strong bias force.

The biasers 11 may be any of a plurality of various types, including butnot limited to: springs 16; contained compressible fluid (e.g., gas) 17;weighted cams 18; elastic materials 19 (e.g., rubber “stopper” shapes);fluid filled elastic containers; electromagnetic devices 20 (e.g., aswhere magnets, an electro-opposing magnet 111 and a permanent magnet 112are used in opposition to one another); and/or electromechanicaldevices, as but a few examples. Indeed, any device or system that canprovide an elastic bias force may be used. Of course, the elasticity ofthe biaser may be what enables, at least in part, the repeatedre-positioning of positioners 9. Plastic deformation of biasers, if morethan de minimus, is undesired. Additionally, preferred embodiments mayinclude biasers that provide a biasing force that is proportional to thedisplacement of the positioner (which may be the same as thedisplacement of the biaser). Such relationship may be linear (e.g., asprovided by a linear spring or certain contained, control volume gases),but need not be. As one might expect, the biasers may, in addition topossibly providing other functions, provide predictable stability to thesystem in opposing the drive force, and thereby allow accurate,controlled positioning of the positioners as desired. In certainembodiments, a biaser(s) may act directly against the driving forceprovided by the compressed fluid acting on a piston 30. It is of notethat designs described as including each of a plurality of biasersconfigured to bias at least one of the positioners include designs whereone or more biasers biases a positioner (which, in certain embodiments,may be responsive to (e.g., moved by) one or more than one piston 30).In particular embodiments, each of the biasers may be independentlymovable relative to all other biasers (such that one biaser can be movedwithout effecting movement of another). Such feature alone may providean unforeseen degree of operational control and simplicity.

The fluidic drive system may be a pneumatic drive system or a hydraulicdrive system, as but two examples; either system may include a fluidcompressor 40 and a fluid conveyance system 41 (e.g., tubes made fromsufficiently strong and rigid material) that conveys pressurized fluidfrom the fluid compressor to the positioner actuators 50). A pressureregulator 42 (including but not limited to digital pressure regulators)is often found for use in conjunction with (or as part of) fluidcompressors. Preferably, the fluidic drive system comprises a pluralityof positioner actuators 50 (such actuate the movement of the positioners9, whether in first relative direction or a direction opposite thatfirst relative direction); each of the positioner actuators may, inparticular embodiments comprise a cylinder 51 having a piston 30 therein(as but one possible type of positioner actuator). Often, suchpiston-type cylinders are single acting (e.g., with a cavity foraccepting fluid on one side of the piston and a biaser (e.g., a spring)and an air vent 53 on the other). Of course, if the system can beconfigured in either way such that the first relative direction istowards the conveyed bottles (in an exemplary application) or, in anopposite configuration, such that the first relative direction is awayfrom the conveyed bottles.

Generally, a positioner actuator 50 controls, at least in part, theposition of the part whose position is to be ultimately controlled(e.g., a side guide 15); the control it provides may be more “direct”than any control that might be the to be provided by the compressor or aregulator attached thereto. In preferred embodiments, the positioneractuators 50 are linked in parallel with a fluid compressor. Oneadvantage of fluidicly linking positioner actuators in parallel (asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2, as but two examples) is that if one actuatorgets “stuck” in a certain position, or if tubing to one becomes blocked,the others still can operate properly. Further, for certain applications(e.g., conveyed bottle side guide position controllers, as shown in FIG.1), entirely acceptable results may be observed using positioneractuators having a +/−0.05 inch accuracy. Such relatively inexpensiveactuators may further the benefits of the inventive system, particularlyin those systems where many actuators are used (some may use hundreds ofactuators).

Biasers 11, generally viewed as distinct from the fluidic drive system7, may be established within or externally of the positioner actuators50; as such, in certain embodiments, springs 16, a type of biaser 11,may be inside or external of positioner actuators 50. Further, onebiaser 11 may be dedicated to a single one of the positioner actuators(see, e.g. FIG. 1), more than one biaser may be dedicated to a singleone of the positioner actuators, or one biaser may be dedicated to twoor more positioner actuators (see, e.g. FIG. 4). In certain embodiments,each of the biasers may bias a single one of the positioners; in otherembodiments, there may be more than one positioner for each biaser, ormore than one biaser for each positioner. Biasers, particularly wherethe force they exert is easily countered by a human hand (as is the casein a typical positioner extension), may provide the ancillary benefit ofallowing for easy hand manipulation of a positioner (or a side guideattached thereto) in order to, e.g., remove a jammed bottle, and thebenefit of preventing jams in the first place by providing anelastically resilient positioner (an thus, in side guide embodiments, anelastically resilient side guide).

In certain piston-type actuator apparatus, the positioners are immobilerelative to a single one of the pistons (in such embodiments, thepositioners may be similar to “connecting rods” or “piston rods”, asshown in FIG. 2). Even where the positioners are hingedly attached to apiston (so there is some relative rotational movement), if they areimmobile relative to one another along an axis that is in line orparallel with the first relative direction, then they are consideredimmobile relative to one another. Further, in certain embodiments, eachof the positioners is capable of travel within only one spatial rangeduring an apparatus setup.

It is of note that it is not always the case that the positioners 9 arethe part whose position is, ultimately, the position of actual concernparticularly in the case where the apparatus includes side guides 15 oris used to position side guides 15. In certain embodiments, there may,e.g., be a linkage 70 between the positioner 9 and the part whoseposition is, ultimately, the position of actual concern (e.g., a sideguide). As such, the apparatus may further comprise a linkage 70 (e.g.,a scissor-type linkage) connecting the positioner with the part (e.g., aside guide 15) whose position is ultimately the position of actualconcern 15.

Distance sensors 80 may be used to provide accurate positioning,particularly in those applications where, for one reason or another,positioners or side guides may drift or be moved out of proper positionduring apparatus operation (e.g., during a single “run” on a certainbottle size). Distance sensors may also be helpful in accuratelyre-positioning positioners or side guides between differentapplications, perhaps as necessitated by the different sized item to beconveyed during a new “run” (e.g., to process a different bottle size).As such, particular embodiments may further comprise at least onedistance sensor established to measure a distance (between twooppositely facing side guides, or between a side guide and a bottle, asbut two examples) that can be adjusted by the position controlapparatus. The at least one distance sensor may comprise a plurality ofdistance sensors, where possibly each distance sensor is dedicated toone, or, in a different embodiment, more than one positioner. Types ofdistance sensors include but are not limited to optical distance sensorsand linear transducers.

A programmable logic controller (PLC) 81 may be used, particularly inthose embodiments featuring distance sensors. The PLC may be configuredto adjust the fluidic drive system to adjust (the position of) at leastone of the positioners; such adjustment may be necessary during a new“run” (e.g., a new run of a bottle conveyor, to process a bottle sizehaving a width that is different from that width of the immediatelyprior “run”). In certain embodiments (see, e.g., FIG. 1), one distancesensor is used for all positioners that are linked to a singlecompressor, and the PLC will be used to substantially equally andsimultaneously adjust all such positioners. If more than one distancesensor is used for all positioners that are linked to a singlecompressor, then either: (a) measurements from such sensors may bemanipulated (e.g., averaged) to generate an average measurement that canthen be used to substantially equally and simultaneously adjust all suchpositioners; or (b) there may be provided a control system where acertain portion of the positioners (perhaps only one, where there is aone distance sensor to positioner ratio) will be adjusted according tofeedback from a single distance sensor. In either design, there may needto be provided a PLC and a pressure regulator for each distance sensor.In preferred embodiments having a PLC and distance sensors, the PLC isconfigured to repetitively adjust the fluidic drive system in responseto distance measurements repetitively made with distance sensor(s).

Particular embodiments of the inventive position control apparatustechnology may be described as comprising a fluidic drive system 7 thatcomprises a fluid compressor 40 and a plurality of positioner actuators50 fluidicly linked in parallel and with the fluid compressor 40; apiston 30 in each of the positioner actuators 50; and a plurality ofpositioners 9, each of which is responsive to (e.g., movable by) atleast one of the pistons 30, wherein the drive system 7 is configured todrive the piston 30 in a first relative direction 10, and wherein theapparatus further comprises a plurality of biasers 11, each of which isconfigured to bias at least one of the positioners 9 in a direction 12opposite the first relative direction. In certain of such embodiments,each of the positioners 9 is responsive to one of the pistons 30. It isof note that the general description provided in this paragraph may befurther characterized by any of the above-presented descriptions ofalternative designs and design specifics.

As mentioned, applications of position control apparatus include, butare not limited to, the following: side guide position control apparatus(see, e.g., FIG. 1), a differential valve controller (see, e.g. FIG. 9),and a programmable vehicle suspension system (see, e.g. FIG. 10). Theinventive technology may find application wherever linear actuators mayfind use and, indeed, in other areas also. Of course, the inventivetechnology, in particular embodiments, may find particular applicationin those systems benefiting from repeated adjustment as necessary toassure proper positioning and/or, in systems that are usable to processdifferently sized items (e.g., bottles of different sizes), wherecomponents need to have their position adjusted before a specific “run”,depending on the size of an item processed during that “run.” It is ofnote that, particularly when finding application as part of aprogrammable vehicle suspension system (e.g., to control groundclearance), the apparatus may include a throttling valve through whichthe compressed fluid, initially entering at 101, could be passed toprovide dampening via damper 102. In the differential valve controllerapparatus, a PLC may use either valve position or flow informationfeedback to adjust the position of the valve to achieve the intendedflow rate. The differential valve controller apparatus may include,inter alia, a compressor 40 (and typically also a pressure regulator), apositioner actuator 50 (e.g., a biased cylinder) and a valve arm 93. Ofcourse, a PLC may be used in conjunction with the pressure regulator,perhaps relying on feedback from a distance sensor (which might measurethe position of the valve arm) or a flow meter, as but two examples.

It is of note that in certain embodiments, it is advantageous to providea single zone with springs having substantially identical springconstants. Such results in a zone having positioners that extend orretract in similar manner and that result in, e.g., the positioning of aside guide as desired with sufficient precision. Precision springs mayprovide a satisfactory operational precision, but such springs may becost prohibitive. In order to avoid such high costs, position actuatorsmay be outfitted with less expensive springs, tested, and groupedaccording to their response (e.g., displacement) under a given drivingforce. Each zone may be outfitted with only actuators of a single group,thereby providing the needed precision. Of course, the closer theresponsive behavior of the springs in a single group, the more precisethe positioning of the positioners.

Another manner in which to reduce costs may involve the use of a controlsystem that, instead of including one regulator for each zone, uses asingle regulator (e.g., a proportional regulator, such as a digitalproportional regulator), for more than one air tank. The systemtypically would include auto valves for switching between the air tanksand be housed as a single control unit. Such system might beparticularly applicable for applications wherein continual, repeatedmonitoring of every single zone at the same time is not needed, butrather where it is sufficient that the system allows for sequential,zone-by-zone repositioning, whether between “runs” on different sizedcontainer (for example), or to maintain proper positioning during asingle run.

Particular embodiments may include device that serve to lock thepositioner in a certain position. Such a device may become engaged oncethe positioner reaches a certain position, or once fluidic pressure ischanged (e.g., released or increased). The device may be of many types,including a clamp, and may be built into or onto a positioner actuatoror a component thereof (e.g., a cylinder). An exemplary type of positionlock device is a donut shaped, hard rubber bellows that fits around apositioner (e.g., a piston rod), that may nestle in a speciallyconfigured slot in the nose of the cylinder. When fluid pressurechanges, the bellows may expand (or indeed, even contract), therebylocking the positioner in place. Of course, there are many types of locksystems, including indexing systems (as but one example), that may serveto secure the positioner (and, e.g., a side guide attached thereto) in adesired position. As can be readily appreciated, such locking systemswould be especially advantageous in high tolerance applications whereeven a small loss of proper position (e.g., because of a slight decreasein air pressure) would be unacceptable.

The inventive technology includes position control methods, one of whichmay generally be described as comprising the steps of: driving, with asingle fluidic displacement 8, each of a plurality of positioners 9 in afirst relative direction 10; and biasing, with a plurality of biasers11, the positioners 9 in a direction 12 that is opposite the firstrelative direction, wherein the step of driving is accomplished, atleast in part, with a fluidic drive system 7. An inventive positioncontrol method may also be described as comprising the steps of:fluidicly linking a plurality of positioner actuators 50 in parallel andwith a fluid compressor 40 to establish a fluidic drive system 7;establishing a piston 30 in each of the positioner actuators 50;establishing a plurality of positioners 9 so that each of thepositioners is responsive to at least one of the pistons 30; configuringthe fluidic drive system 7 to drive, with a single fluidic displacement8, each of the pistons 30 in a first relative direction 10; andconfiguring each of a plurality of biasers 11 to bias at least one ofthe positioners 9 in a direction 12 opposite the first relativedirection. It is of note that the general description provided in thisparagraph may be further characterized by any of the above-presentedapparatus descriptions of alternative designs and design specifics, butapplied here as they may more particularly relate to a method.

At least one embodiment of the inventive technology may be described asa position control apparatus that comprises: a fluidic drive systemconfigured to drive at least one positioner 9 in a first relativedirection, the fluidic drive system comprising at least one positioneractuator that each includes a piston containing space

The apparatus may further comprise a housing 122 that defines the pistoncontaining space, the piston containing space defined by a pressurizedfluid side housing end 130, a positioner side housing end 131, andhousing walls 132 therebetween. Further, the apparatus may include: abias system that itself includes at least one biaser 125 establishedexternally of the piston containing space, the bias system biasing thepositioners in a direction that is opposite the first relative directionvia tension; a first support 126 with which a first biaser end 127 ofeach of the at least one biaser is connected; and a second support 128to which a second biaser end 129 of each of the at least one biaser isattached, the second support moving with the positioner during apparatusoperation. The housing may be a block 120 (see FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C,13,14C, 14D, 15B-F and 16) or by a cylinder 121 (see FIG. 11) in which apiston 151 is established and from which one of the at least onepositioner extends, where one of the at least one positioner isconnected with the piston (typically directly, but also indirectly).“Block” is a general term for a rigid material contiguity thatestablishes the piston containing space 123 and perhaps other spaces 124(whether cylindrical or not) in which biaser(s) (external of thecylindrical space housing the piston) may be established. Such block maybe, in one example, an extrusion (see, e.g., FIGS. 12A and 12B). It neednot be square, rectangular, or “blockish” in shape, but merely needs tohouse a piston containing space (or bore) and at least one biaser.Further, when the apparatus is in a full retraction configuration, atleast part of the housing and at least part of the positioner isestablished between the first support and the second support. Theapparatus, as intended, enables adjustment of the at least positioner toa plurality of positions (perhaps an infinite number of positions)within a positioner range.

In certain embodiments, the first support is fixed during the apparatusoperation while the second support is connected with the positioner (andthus moves with the positioner). Note that the term fixed means fixed(and immovable) relative to the housing of the piston containing space(whether that housing be a block or a cylinder). As such, even where thehousing of a first position control apparatus is attached (whetherdirectly or indirectly) to a positioner of a second, adjacent apparatus(see FIG. 13, FIGS. 15C and 15D), the first support is said to be fixed.This definition applies to other uses of the term “fixed” (e.g. a fixedarmature end); similarly, the term movable (e.g., a movable support ormovable armature end) implies movable relative to the housing definingthe piston containing space. The pressurized fluid side housing end maybe part of the first support, or the first support may be part of thepressurized fluid side housing end. The housing may be connected withthe first support and the at least one biaser may be establishedalongside the piston containing space (indeed, the biaser(s) maysurround the piston containing space). The first support may play animportant role in providing a base for the bias force, and thus, providean important role in transferring the bias force to the piston. Often,particularly in high operational efficiency designs, the at least onebiaser may be established externally of the piston containing space.Further, particularly in embodiments where the housing is a cylinder 121(as opposed to a block 120), the first support, the second support, andthe at least one biaser may form an armature 135 into which the cylindercan be retrofit. Note that a cylinder is viewed as being retrofit intoan armature even where the armature is fit around the cylinder.

Particularly in those embodiments where the housing is a block, the atleast one biaser may be established within the housing. Further, thefirst support may be part of the housing. In particular embodiments, asshown in FIG. 12, the housing may establish at least three cylindricalspaces (see FIG. 12A), one of which 123 houses one of the pistons, andthe remaining of which 124 each houses a different one of the at leasttwo biasers. In certain embodiments, the first support may be part ofthe housing. As mentioned, the apparatus may include a second support;second biaser end(s) 129 of the at least one biaser may be connectedtherewith such that the second support moves with the positioner duringapparatus operation. As such, the second support may play a criticalrole in applying the bias force to the piston (thus enabling precisecontrol via driving pressure regulation of the positioner's position).The supports may form ends of the apparatus (regardless of whether theapparatus is a cylinder type (with springs exposed, such as armaturetype) or block type (with springs concealed, at least when the apparatusis in full retraction configuration). As with any other design, theblock may include mounting slots 140 that facilitate attachment of theapparatus to certain components of the device/apparatus in which theposition control apparatus will be incorporated (e.g., component of asolar array, or of a conveyance system). Note also that, as shown inFIGS. 14E and 16B, when a block type position control apparatus is in afull extension position, a tube (e.g., a steel tube) may contain thespring (and slide out from the block during extension of thepositioner). FIGS. 12C, 16A and 16B provide a transparent view showingthe concealed spring (concealed by the block and the tube in fullretraction configuration, and by the tube in full extensionconfiguration). Note that surrounding the spring with a tube that moveswith the positioner (and slides out of the block) is, like many of thedisclosed features, not required.

Of course, positioner actuators may have a cylindrical space having apiston therein; such space may be established by a cylinder (as in theretrofit example as shown in FIG. 11), or a block. Particularly inembodiments where the biasers are external of any positioner actuator(which may include, inter alia, a piston, perhaps a piston rod, and thewalls that form the space in which the piston moves) and where thepiston containing space is formed by a cylinder (as opposed to a block),the biasers, in addition to two supports (perhaps a fixed (or first)support and a movable (or second) support, which may be in the form ofmetal bars (as but one example)) may form an armature 135. In particularembodiments (including retrofit embodiments), conventional actuators(e.g., two position cylinders) may be established in the armature suchthat the biasers (e.g., springs) provide a biasing force that opposesmotion in the driving direction (e.g., springs may be in tension).

As mentioned, particularly where the biasers are springs and areestablished externally of the positioner actuator, such springs may bein tension. One or more biasers may be established around the pistoncontaining space and thereby be associated with such piston containingspace (typically a cylindrical space). It is of note that, as mentioned,where the space containing the piston is formed by a block (e.g., anextrusion), the biasers may be established around that space. While onebiaser (e.g., a spring) may be established around the actuator,typically more than one biaser would be established therearound.Particular figures (FIG. 11, 12, e.g.) show two biasers establishedaround the actuator. Whether one, two or more than one biasers isestablished around an actuator, such biasers may be connected with apositioner associated with that actuator. Such connection may beachieved via connecting the moving end of the biasers (the second end)to a second (or movable) support (e.g., a rigid member such as a bar, aplate, an annular ring, as but a few examples), and then perhapsconnecting that support to the positioner in some fashion. Note thatbecause it is only necessary that the second support moves with thepositioner during apparatus operation, connecting the two (whetherdirectly or indirectly) may not be necessary in some applications(because the bias force may keep the second (or movable) supportestablished against the positioner).

In particular embodiments, a position control method may be described ascomprising the steps of: establishing a cylinder 121 within an armature135, the cylinder having a first cylinder end 140 that receivespressurized fluid and a second cylinder end 141 from which a positioner9 extends in a first relative direction 145, wherein the armature has afixed armature end 142 and a movable armature end 143 that oppose eachother, and wherein at least one biaser 144 (at least one spring 159) isestablished within and as part of the armature. When the cylinder isestablished between the two opposing armature ends, at least one biasermay bias the two opposing armature ends towards each other (althoughonly one end is typically movable) in a direction opposite the firstrelative direction, with a bias force. The method may further comprisethe steps of connecting the fixed armature end with the first cylinderend; and establishing the movable armature end relative to the secondcylinder end so that the movable armature end and the second cylinderend extend and retract together (perhaps via connecting them). Thismethod may be described as a positioning system upgrading method(because, e.g., it may provide to a two position per cylinder system anability to infinitely position); where the armature is retrofit onto aconventional cylinder (e.g., a two position cylinder) or vice versa, themethod may be described as a retrofit method. It may also enhanceoperational efficiency of an existing cylinder or positioning system.The step of establishing a cylinder within an armature may comprise thestep of establishing a cylinder within an armature such that the atleast one/two/more than two biaser(s) is external of, parallel with, andalongside the cylinder (see, e.g., FIG. 11).

It is also of note that the inventive technology may include the step ofidentifying at least one positioner apparatus for replacement, where thepositioner apparatus to be replaced enables positioning of a positionerinto only two, three or four positions (e.g., full retraction, fullextension, and possibly intermediate positions). This finite positioncylinder may be simply removed, and replaced, with either a block type,or armature type inventive apparatus, as described and shown elsewhereherein. Such would enhance the positioning ability in that the installedapparatus may now provide infinite positioning, and/or may operate at ahigher operational efficiency.

Particular embodiments of the inventive technology, generallycharacterized as a high operational efficiency position controlapparatus, may be described as a position control apparatus that isreconfigurable between a full retraction mode and a full extension mode,and that perhaps effects positioning to any of an infinite number ofpositions as desired, the apparatus comprising: a positioner; a fluidicdrive system configured to drive the positioner in a first relativedirection; a piston containing space in which a piston is movable andfrom which the positioner extends in the first relative direction; andat least one biaser that biases the positioner in a direction that isopposite the first relative direction. Further, when the apparatus is inthe full retraction mode, the apparatus may be the to have a fullretraction length and when the apparatus is in the full extension mode,the apparatus has a full extension length, and an operational efficiencymay be defined as the difference between the full extension length andthe full retraction length, divided by the full retraction length. Inparticular embodiment, such operational efficiency may be at least 50%.In particular embodiments, it may be at least 60%, at least 65%, atleast 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90%. Relative to conventionaloperational efficiencies of single stroke, non-stacked, non-telescoping,infinite position cylinders, and to single stroke, non-stacked,non-telescoping, biased positioning cylinders, the operationalefficiency in particular embodiments of the inventive technology may beat least twice as great.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show relative extension lengths that may be used todetermine operational efficiencies. Note from FIG. 15 that additionalincreases in efficiency may be achieved by connecting adjacent apparatus(e.g., by connecting block of on apparatus to a positioner of anadjacent apparatus). Such enhanced efficiencies include, but are notlimited to: greater than greater than 100%, greater than 130%, greaterthan 150%, greater than 200%, greater than 250%, and greater than 260%.

Particular embodiments may achieve such high operational efficiency witha design in which biasers (e.g., springs) are established externally ofthe piston containing space, and alongside the piston containing space(as opposed to a design where the spring is established in the pistoncontaining space, and “stacked” end to end with the piston). Biaser(s)that are external of the piston containing space and establishedalongside such space are the to surround the piston containing space.Typically, in such designs, the spring(s) outside of the pistoncontaining space are in tension (even during full positionerretraction). Also of note is that, as with most other designs, thepiston containing space may be established by a block or a cylinder; ineither design, the piston containing space may be a cylindrical spacewithin which at least part of the positioner is housed when theapparatus is in the full retraction mode. In “block” designs, asmentioned, the block may house at least two biasers externally of thecylindrical space within which a piston may be housed when the apparatusis in the full retraction mode.

It is of note that, due to manufacturing discrepancies, particularlydifferences in helical spring length, some springs may start to move(i.e., extend in length if in tension (e.g., external biaser designs),or shorten in length if in compression (e.g., internal biaser designs))at a pressure that is different from the pressure at which other springsstart to move. However, initiation of movement of springs (and thus ofthe positioners that they bias) preferably occurs at equal pressures,particularly as to position control apparatus of the same zone (whereposition control apparatus of the same zone are those that arefluidically connected in parallel, or those where one fluidicdisplacement drives pistons of such “same zone” apparatus). In order toalleviate this problem, there may be provided a spring length adjusterconfigured to enable adjusting of length of each of the springs (e.g.,preferably one for each spring, but perhaps one for each set of springsassociated with a single positioner actuator). FIGS. 16A and 16B showexamples of an apparatus with a spring length adjuster 153. As shown inthese figures, one example of a spring length adjuster that isconfigured to enable adjusting of length of each springs may involve athreaded bolt established through an end of the part that an end of thespring is attached to (or through the end of the spring itself), suchthat rotation of the bolt changes the length of the spring. Turning ofsuch bolt may change spring length, and thus enable adjustment of abiaser preload condition. Consequently, manipulating the spring lengthadjuster may change the drive pressure (effected by the drive system) atwhich positioner starts, preferably effecting sufficiently simultaneousinitiation of movement of all positioners within a zone. For example,where bias force is a tension bias force, if a certain spring isstarting too early (i.e., at too low a pressure), the pre-load biasforce can be increased by lengthening the spring; if a certain spring isstarting too late, the preload bias force can be decreased by shorteningthe spring. Upon appropriate adjustment (if necessary), the preferredsufficiently simultaneous initiation of movement of all positionerswithin a zone will occur because all positioners will start moving at asufficiently identical pressure. It is of note that it is not the casethat the only biaser that may benefit from this technology is springs;indeed, other biasers may have their pre-load conditions adjusted(perhaps via volume change in the case of compressed fluid biaser typeapparatus).

As mentioned, there are a wide variety of applications of the inventivetechnology, from side guides for conveyance systems (where such sideguides also include neck and shoulder guides); conveyance system guides,non-conveyance systems, tooling guide positioners; positioning systemswithin hazardous and explosion proof environments; and positioningsystems for arrays such as, but not limited to, solar panel arrays andreflecting mirror arrays, in addition to the applications indicatedelsewhere in this application. It should be understood that anyapplication requiring precise positioning of a positioner 9 (and perhapsa component connected in some fashion thereto) may benefit from theinventive technology disclosed herein.

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. It involvesboth position control techniques as well as devices to accomplish theappropriate control. In this application, the position controltechniques are disclosed as part of the results shown to be achieved bythe various devices described and as steps which are inherent toutilization. They are simply the natural result of utilizing the devicesas intended and described. In addition, while some devices aredisclosed, it should be understood that these not only accomplishcertain methods but also can be varied in a number of ways. Importantly,as to all of the foregoing, all of these facets should be understood tobe encompassed by this disclosure.

The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as abasic description. The reader should be aware that the specificdiscussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; manyalternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the genericnature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature orelement can actually be representative of a broader function or of agreat variety of alternative or equivalent elements. Again, these areimplicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention is describedin device-oriented terminology, each element of the device implicitlyperforms a function. Apparatus claims may not only be included for thedevice described, but also method or process claims may be included toaddress the functions the invention and each element performs. Neitherthe description nor the terminology is intended to limit the scope ofthe claims that will be included in any subsequent patent application.

It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be madewithout departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes arealso implicitly included in the description. They still fall within thescope of this invention. A broad disclosure encompassing both theexplicit embodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternativeembodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like areencompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting theclaims for any subsequent patent application. It should be understoodthat such language changes and broader or more detailed claiming may beaccomplished at a later date (such as by any required deadline) or inthe event the applicant subsequently seeks a patent filing based on thisfiling. With this understanding, the reader should be aware that thisdisclosure is to be understood to support any subsequently filed patentapplication that may seek examination of as broad a base of claims asdeemed within the applicant's right and may be designed to yield apatent covering numerous aspects of the invention both independently andas an overall system.

Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims mayalso be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used orimplied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual aswell as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected.This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a methodor process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element ofthese. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosurerelates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may beexpressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms—even if only thefunction or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even moregeneric terms should be considered to be encompassed in the descriptionof each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desiredto make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this inventionis entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that allactions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as anelement which causes that action. Similarly, each physical elementdisclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the actionwhich that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, asbut one example, the disclosure of a “biaser” should be understood toencompass disclosure of the act of “biasing”—whether explicitlydiscussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure ofthe act of “biasing”, such a disclosure should be understood toencompass disclosure of a “biaser” and even a “means for biasing” Suchchanges and alternative terms are to be understood to be explicitlyincluded in the description.

Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in thisapplication for patent are hereby incorporated by reference. Anypriority case(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended andhereby incorporated by reference. In addition, as to each term used itshould be understood that unless its utilization in this application isinconsistent with a broadly supporting interpretation, common dictionarydefinitions should be understood as incorporated for each term and alldefinitions, alternative terms, and synonyms such as contained in theRandom House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition are herebyincorporated by reference. Finally, all references or other informationdisclosure statement filed with the application are hereby appended andhereby incorporated by reference, however, as to each of the above, tothe extent that such information or statements incorporated by referencemight be considered inconsistent with the patenting of this/theseinvention(s) such statements are expressly not to be considered as madeby the applicant(s).

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim andmake a statement of invention to at least: i) each of the biasingdevices as herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methodsdisclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicitvariations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternativedesigns which accomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosedand described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplisheach of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which isdisclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown asseparate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced bythe various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resultingproducts produced by such systems or components, ix) each system,method, and element shown or described as now applied to any specificfield or devices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially asdescribed hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanyingexamples, xi) the various combinations and permutations of each of theelements disclosed, xii) each potentially dependent claim or concept asa dependency on each and every one of the independent claims or conceptspresented, and xiii) all inventions described herein.

In addition and as to computer aspects and each aspect amenable toprogramming or other electronic automation, the applicant(s) should beunderstood to have support to claim and make a statement of invention toat least: xvi) processes performed with the aid of or on a computer asdescribed throughout the above discussion, xv) a programmable apparatusas described throughout the above discussion, xvi) a computer readablememory encoded with data to direct a computer comprising means orelements which function as described throughout the above discussion,xvii) a computer configured as herein disclosed and described, xviii)individual or combined subroutines and programs as herein disclosed anddescribed, xix) the related methods disclosed and described, xx)similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of thesesystems and methods, xxi) those alternative designs which accomplisheach of the functions shown as are disclosed and described, xxii) thosealternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functionsshown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed anddescribed, xxiii) each feature, component, and step shown as separateand independent inventions, and xxiv) the various combinations andpermutations of each of the above.

With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, itshould be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid greatexpansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any timepresent only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with onlyinitial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested inpotential scope of this or subsequent applications should understandthat broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in acase claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spiteof any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, orarguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there isno intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. Itshould be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, suchmay require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered atany prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that tothe extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented inthis or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid suchprior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims orthe like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested inexisting or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at anytime been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender ofpotential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimeris ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application.Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this orany subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understoodto exist to the degree required under new matter laws—including but notlimited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United StatesPatent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws—to permit the addition of anyof the various dependencies or other elements presented under oneindependent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any otherindependent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whetherin this application or in any subsequent application, it should also beunderstood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broada scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent thatinsubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant didnot in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particularembodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant shouldnot be understood to have in any way intended to or actuallyrelinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have beenable to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should notbe reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literallyencompassed such alternative embodiments.

Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrase“comprising” is used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, accordingto traditional claim interpretation. Thus, unless the context requiresotherwise, it should be understood that the term “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are intended to implythe inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or stepsbut not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elementsor steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive formso as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible.

Finally, any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated byreference as part of this description of the invention, and theapplicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion ofsuch incorporated content of such claims as additional description tosupport any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof,and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move anyportion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or anyelement or component thereof from the description into the claims orvice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection issought by this application or by any subsequent continuation, division,or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefitof, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws,rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such contentincorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency ofthis application including any subsequent continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extensionthereon.

What is claimed is:
 1. A position control apparatus configured andoperable for moving at least one side guide component of an itemconveyance system to any of a plurality of component positions, asdesired, within a component position range, said apparatus comprising: afluidic drive system configured to drive, with a single fluidicdisplacement, a plurality of positioners in a first relative direction;and a bias system that includes a plurality of biasers that bias saidpositioners in a direction that is opposite said first relativedirection, wherein said bias system includes at least one biaser forevery positioner, and wherein said apparatus enables adjustment of saidpositioners to a plurality of positions within a positioner range, saidpositioners effecting positioning, as desired, of said at least one sideguide component to a desired component position within said componentposition range.
 2. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1wherein each of said biasers biases a different one of said positioners.3. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein saidfluidic drive system comprises a plurality of positioner actuators.
 4. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 3 wherein said biaserscomprise springs, each of said positioner actuators have a pistontherein, and wherein at least one spring is associated with a respectivepiston of said positioner actuators and moves along at least one springaxis, each of said at least one spring axis being parallel to a pistonaxis along which said piston moves.
 5. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 4 wherein said at least one spring axis is differentfrom said piston axis.
 6. A position control apparatus as described inclaim 3 wherein each of said biasers is dedicated to a single one ofsaid positioner actuators.
 7. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 3 wherein said positioner actuators have a +/−0.05 inchaccuracy.
 8. A position control apparatus as described in claim 3wherein a majority of said positioner actuators each comprises acylindrical space having a piston therein.
 9. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 8 wherein said cylindrical space isestablished by a cylinder.
 10. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 8 wherein said cylindrical space is established by an block.11. A position control apparatus as described in claim 8 wherein each ofsaid majority of positioners is immobile relative to a single one ofsaid pistons.
 12. A position control apparatus as described in claim 3wherein said positioner actuators are linked in parallel and with afluid compressor.
 13. A position control apparatus as described in claim3 wherein said biasers are established within said positioner actuators.14. A position control apparatus as described in claim 3 wherein saidbiasers are established externally of said positioner actuators.
 15. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 14 wherein saidplurality of biasers are springs that act in tension.
 16. A positioncontrol apparatus as described in claim 3 wherein each of saidpositioner actuators comprises a cylindrical space having a pistontherein.
 17. A position control apparatus as described in claim 16wherein said cylindrical space has at least two biasers establishedalongside and externally thereof.
 18. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 17 further comprising an armature of which said atleast two biasers form a part, wherein said cylindrical space isestablished by a cylinder, and wherein said cylinders is retrofittedinto said armature.
 19. A position control apparatus as described inclaim 17 wherein said at least two biasers established around saidcylinder are in tension.
 20. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 17 wherein said at least two biasers established around saidcylinder are connected with a positioner associated with saidcylindrical space.
 21. A position control apparatus as described inclaim 17 wherein said at least one of said cylindrical space isestablished by at least one block.
 22. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 21 wherein said biasers comprise springs establishedin at least one block.
 23. A position control apparatus as described inclaim 21 wherein at least one of said blocks establishes at least threecylindrical spaces, one of which houses a piston, and the remaining ofwhich each houses a different one of said biasers.
 24. A positioncontrol apparatus as described in claim 21 wherein said at least one ofsaid blocks comprises mounting slots.
 25. A position control apparatusas described in claim 1 wherein each of said biasers are independentlymovable relative to all other biasers.
 26. A position control apparatusas described in claim 1 wherein said biasers comprise springs.
 27. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 26 further comprisingat least one spring length adjuster configured to enable adjusting of atleast one of said springs.
 28. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 26 wherein said at least one spring length adjuster comprisesat least one bolt connected with said at least one spring.
 29. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said biaserscomprise contained compressible fluid.
 30. A position control apparatusas described in claim 1 wherein said contained compressible fluidcomprises contained gas.
 31. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 1 wherein said biasers comprise weighted cams.
 32. A positioncontrol apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said biasers compriseelectromagnetic devices.
 33. A position control apparatus as describedin claim 1 wherein said biasers comprise fluid filled elasticcontainers.
 34. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1wherein each of said biasers exerts a force that relates linearly to abiaser displacement.
 35. A position control apparatus as described inclaim 1 wherein said fluidic drive system comprises a pneumatic drivesystem.
 36. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1 whereinsaid fluidic drive system comprises a hydraulic drive system.
 37. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said fluidicdrive system comprises a fluid compressor.
 38. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 1 further comprising at least onedistance sensor established to measure a distance that can be adjustedby said position control apparatus.
 39. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 38 wherein said at least one distance sensorcomprises a plurality of distance sensors.
 40. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 39 wherein each said distance sensors isdedicated to a one of said positioners.
 41. A position control apparatusas described in claim 39 wherein each said distance sensors is dedicatedto more than one of said positioners.
 42. A position control apparatusas described in claim 38 wherein said at least one distance sensorcomprises at least one optical distance sensor.
 43. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 38 wherein said at least one distancesensor comprises at least one linear transducer.
 44. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 1 further comprising a PLC configured toadjust said fluidic drive system to adjust at least one of saidpositioners.
 45. A position control apparatus as described in claim 44wherein said PLC is configured to repetitively adjust said fluidic drivesystem in response to distance measurements repetitively made with adistance sensor.
 46. A position control apparatus as described in claim1 wherein said fluidic drive system comprises a digital pressureregulator.
 47. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1wherein said at least one side guide component of an item conveyancesystem comprises at least one side guide of a bottle conveyance system.48. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said atleast one side guide component of an item conveyance system comprises atleast one side guide of a pallet conveyance system.
 49. A positioncontrol apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said plurality ofpositioners comprise all positioners that are driven with said singlefluidic displacement by said fluidic drive system.
 50. A positioncontrol apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein each of saidpositioners is capable of travel within only one spatial range during anapparatus setup.
 51. A position control apparatus as described in claim1 further comprising a linkage connected with the positioner.
 52. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said at leastone component comprises a side guide.
 53. A position control apparatusas described in claim 1 wherein said apparatus enables adjustment ofsaid positioners to any of an infinite number of positions within saidpositioner range, said positioners effecting positioning, as desired, ofsaid at least one side guide component to any of an infinite number ofside guide component positions.
 54. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 53 wherein said apparatus is capable oftranslationally moving said at least one side guide component.
 55. Aposition control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein saidapparatus is capable of translationally moving said at least one sideguide component.
 56. A position control apparatus as described in claim1 wherein said plurality of biasers are springs having substantiallyidentical spring constants.
 57. A position control apparatus asdescribed in claim 1 wherein said plurality of biasers are springs thatact in tension.
 58. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1wherein said plurality of biasers are springs that act in compression.59. A position control apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein saidplurality of biasers are retrofit into position.
 60. A position controlapparatus as described in claim 1 wherein at least one of said biaserhas a fully retracted length of approximately 3 inches, and a fullyextended length of approximately 6 inches.